Close-up photograph of green grass blades

What is Spring Dieback in Bermudagrass?

Spring dieback refers to the condition where portions of a bermudagrass lawn fail to recover from winter dormancy. Instead of greening up uniformly, you may notice thin, dead, or brown areas in your lawn, often surrounded by healthy, green grass.

What Causes Spring Dieback?

Several factors can contribute to spring dieback in bermudagrass:

  1. Winter Injury:

    • Bermudagrass is hardy but can suffer damage during harsh winters, especially in areas with extended freezing temperatures.

    • Insufficient snow cover or insulation during extreme cold can leave the grass vulnerable.

  2. Poor Drainage or Saturated Soil:

    • Bermudagrass does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Excessive moisture during winter can suffocate roots, leading to dieback.

  3. Thatch Buildup:

    • A thick thatch layer (accumulating dead and decomposing grass stems) can trap moisture, promote fungal diseases, and prevent the grass from recovering correctly in spring.

  4. Low Soil Fertility:

    • A lack of essential nutrients, particularly potassium, weakens bermudagrass and makes it less resistant to stress and winter conditions.

  5. Pests and Diseases:

    • Root-knot nematodes, fungal infections, or diseases like spring dead spots can kill sections of the lawn, leaving bare patches.

  6. Improper Mowing Practices:

    • Scalping the lawn (mowing too short) before dormancy or immediately after green-up can damage the crowns and delay recovery.

How to Prevent Spring Dieback in Bermudagrass

Prevention is critical to minimizing the risk of spring dieback. Here’s how to protect your lawn:

  1. Winter Preparation:

Make sure that you review your soil test results to see if potassium is required and is deficient prior to adding potassium. Adding potassium that is deficient will assist in hardening the plant tissue for a long winter. Avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers late in the season to reduce late season succulent growth going into winter.

  1. Improve Drainage:

Core aerate your lawn in spring, late summer or early fall to improve air movement and water infiltration and prevent soil compaction. Ensure proper grading to direct excess water away from your lawn.

Person wearing rainboots standing on a flooded lawn
  1. Control Thatch:

Remove excessive thatch buildup through dethatching, verticutting and core aeration.  Maintain thatch layer less than ½ inch thickness.  

  1. Monitor and Treat Pests and Diseases:

Closely inspect your lawn weekly for signs of pests or fungal diseases.  Apply fungicides or insecticides if necessary to address specific issues.

  1. Mow Smartly:

Increase the mower height for the last mow of the growing season to protect grass crowns.  When spring arrives, gradually lower the mower height as the grass greens up to avoid scalping the lawn.

Close-up of a lawn mower cutting the grass

How to Help Your Lawn Recover

If your bermudagrass is already showing signs of spring dieback, don’t panic! Here are steps you can take to help it recover:

  1. Evaluate the Damage:

    • Inspect the lawn to determine the extent of the dieback and focus on identifying dead areas versus areas with delayed green-up.

  2. Rake and Remove Debris:

    • Rake away dead grass and debris to improve airflow and give healthy grass a better chance to grow.

  3. Aerate the Soil:

    • Aerating compacted areas helps improve root growth and nutrient uptake.

  4. Apply Fertilizer:

    • Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer once soil temperatures reach 65°F to encourage new growth and speed up recovery.

    • Supplement with iron for enhanced greening.

  5. Manage Bare Spots:

    • For larger dead areas, consider installing sod to fill in the gaps.

  6. Water Appropriately:

    • Supply your lawn with 1”-1.5” per week.  Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper rooting.  

  7. Be Patient:

    • Recovery takes time if the damage is severe. Consistent care will help your lawn bounce back.

Growing a Lush Green Bermudagrass Lawn 

Spring dieback in bermudagrass can leave one puzzled and frustrated, but the lawn will recover for the growing season. By preparing your lawn for winter, addressing potential causes, and practicing proactive recovery steps, dieback will be minimized and your lawn will recover rapidly and you will have a lush, green lawn all season long.

If you’re looking for high-quality lawn care products to support your bermudagrass, check out Simple Lawn Solutions for fertilizers, soil conditioners, and expert advice. You can help your lawn reach its full potential with the right tools and care!

Have Questions?
Share your Bermudagrass challenges or success stories in the comments below, and let us know how we can help your lawn look its best!

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